Bjorn Again

The thought police are coming for criticism of Islam in New Jersey. Fresh off their big election victories in NJ, Democrats here just introduced Assembly Bill A1146, which creates a sweeping new state definition of “Islamophobia”. And it could land you in jail. Under the bill, “claims of a demographic threat posed by Muslims or of a Muslim takeover” are listed as examples of Islamophobia. So is “hostility and fear of Islam.” Pointing out that the Muslim population is growing (Pew projects it roughly doubling by 2050) or that classical Islamic doctrine calls for Muslim political supremacy over non-Muslims can now be treated as evidence of discriminatory intent. Bring up that many women are required to cover their hair and bodies? (Quran 24:31, 33:59) That can be framed as hostility toward Muslim culture. Point out that Muhammad married a six-year-old and consummated the marriage at nine? (Sahih Bukhari 3894, Sahih Muslim 1422) Stereotypical allegation. Cite the Quranic verses condemning homosexuality? (7:80-81 and related Lot passages) Rhetorical anti-Muslim manifestation. Mention that Jews and Christians were required to submit and pay the jizya tax? (Quran 9:29) Dehumanizing claim about Muslims as a group. The bill gives the state a broad new tool to treat factual criticism of Islamic texts, history, and demographics as proof of Islamophobic motive in existing discrimination cases, workplace investigations, schools, and bias-enhancement decisions. This is how it all starts. Prepare yourself for the same path the UK already took where Grandpas have been getting dragged out of their homes for social media posts.